Reconvening of the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Commission to Build a Healthier America

On the morning of June 19, 2013, the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation (RWJF) Commission to Build a Healthier America reconvened to examine ways - beyond health care- to improve the health of our nation. The reconvening comes four years after the release of its initial recommendations in a report entitled Beyond Health Care: New Directions to a Healthier America. RWJF reconvened the Commission to concentrate on two critical areas, early childhood and healthy communities.

The 2013 Commission will help inspire efforts that will, in the words expressed by RWJF President and CEO, Risa Lavizzo-Mourey, “give people the opportunity to lead healthy lives from their first days to their last."

In addition to remarks from Risa Lavizzo-Mourey, and Commission co-chairs Mark McClellan and Alice Rivlin, there was a discussion of the progress the country has made since the 2009 commission report, and a presentation on “What Shapes Health” by Paula Braveman.

The Commission heard from experts who offered many insights and strategies in panels entitled “Shaping Health Early in Childhood,” and “Creating Healthy Communities.” Several cross cutting themes emerged throughout the discussion, including:

Health is about more than just health care.  

Early childhood investments are the best investments to make.

Evidence and data matter.

Collaboration and multi-sector partnerships are critical.

 We commend the efforts of the Commission and look forward to the Commission’s final report this fall.

• Learn more about the commission and commissioners
• Learn more about the speakers and read panelists’ testimony

Photo Credit: The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation